Skoda ENYAQ with 300'000km as taxi - a honest review incl. comparison with Model Y & Diesel car

Summary

In this insightful video, Felix, the owner of a taxi fleet, discusses the real-world performance of the Skoda Enyaq electric vehicle after over 280,000 kilometers in daily taxi use. The video highlights the car's impressive durability, lower maintenance costs compared to combustion engine taxis, and the challenges faced with battery health after extensive DC fast charging. Felix also compares the Enyaq to Teslas in his fleet, showing how both electric models perform in commercial use. The video emphasizes the benefits of electric vehicles for taxi operations, including lower operating costs, enhanced driver and passenger experience, and environmental advantages.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Skoda Enyaq with nearly 300,000 km in daily use as a taxi demonstrates the durability and efficiency of electric vehicles in commercial fleets.
• 🚗 Despite general skepticism about electric vehicle longevity, the Skoda Enyaq has had minimal issues and significantly lower repair costs compared to combustion engine taxis.
• 🔧 The Enyaq's first-generation MEB platform had some initial issues, such as problems with the charging port lid and damaged coupling rods, but these were relatively minor.
• 🛠️ The Enyaq has completed over 288,000 km without needing a single brake disc replacement, and brake pads have lasted longer than those on comparable combustion engine taxis.
• 🛞 The vehicle's tires need replacement every 45,000-50,000 km, a rate similar to combustion engine taxis despite the Enyaq's 2.3-ton weight.
• 🔩 After 80,000-90,000 km, the front dampers on the Enyaq require replacement, though the rear dampers have lasted much longer.
• 🔋 The Enyaq still performs well in terms of interior quality, with minimal wear on leather seats and no noticeable interior fatigue despite constant use by multiple passengers daily.
• 🔌 The Enyaq’s battery shows a significant range reduction after 288,000 km, with a current state of health at 78%, which is still good given its charging profile (primarily DC charging).
• 📱 The Skoda Enyaq's software and integrated features are useful, but the drivers primarily use external apps like Google Maps through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, suggesting the integrated software isn't fully relied upon.
• ⚡️ Compared to the Tesla Model Y, the Skoda Enyaq offers fewer issues with the chassis and suspension, which results in lower maintenance costs and fewer repairs for the Enyaq.
• 🌱 The transition to electric vehicles in Felix's fleet is motivated by the much lower maintenance and operating costs of electric cars, as well as their superior efficiency and environmental benefits over combustion engines.

Q & A

How many kilometers has the Skoda Enyaq taxi in the video covered?

The Skoda Enyaq featured in the video has covered 281,000 kilometers, which is close to 300,000 kilometers.

What are some common myths about electric vehicles (EVs) that were addressed in the video?

One common myth discussed is that EVs only last for about 100,000 kilometers before breaking down, which the Skoda Enyaq in the video disproves by operating efficiently at nearly 300,000 kilometers.

What maintenance issues has the Skoda Enyaq faced after covering such high mileage?

The Skoda Enyaq had a few minor issues, including problems with the charging port lid and damaged coupling rods. However, there have been no major issues, and the car's repair costs have been significantly lower than those of traditional combustion engine taxis.

How does the Skoda Enyaq's brake performance compare to that of traditional combustion engine vehicles?

Remarkably, the Skoda Enyaq still uses its original brake pads and discs after 288,000 kilometers, whereas traditional combustion engine taxis often need to replace brake pads after around 45,000 kilometers and discs after 90,000 kilometers.

What is the average tire lifespan of the Skoda Enyaq taxi?

The Skoda Enyaq's tires are changed every 45,000 to 50,000 kilometers, which is comparable to the tire replacement frequency in traditional combustion engine vehicles.

How has the Enyaq's battery performed over its high mileage?

After 288,000 kilometers, the Enyaq's battery has a state of health at 78%, which is still considered a good value given the car’s aggressive charging habits (mostly DC fast charging to 100%).

What was the significant battery issue experienced by the Skoda Enyaq in the video?

About four weeks prior to the video, the Enyaq experienced a noticeable drop in range, which prompted a battery diagnostic check. The battery health was found to be at 78%, which is acceptable given its usage and charging habits.

What are the advantages of using an electric vehicle like the Skoda Enyaq for a taxi service?

The primary advantages include lower maintenance costs, energy efficiency, and a more comfortable ride for both drivers and passengers. Electric vehicles also provide significant environmental benefits, saving tons of CO2 emissions compared to traditional combustion engine taxis.

What are some of the challenges of using electric vehicles like the Enyaq in commercial fleets?

One challenge is the lack of EV-specific features for taxi services, such as necessary interfaces for billing and vehicle tracking. However, third-party solutions can be implemented to meet these needs.

How do passengers and drivers feel about using the Skoda Enyaq compared to other vehicles?

Both drivers and passengers are generally very satisfied with the Skoda Enyaq. Passengers appreciate the quiet ride and comfort, while drivers enjoy the lower stress levels and smooth performance. Some passengers even request the Enyaq specifically, preferring it over other vehicles like the Tesla Model Y.